Help for witnesses to WSU killing

Walter Sisulu University students who witnessed Banzi Ndamase falling to his death after being thrown from the third floor of a Mthatha residence have been offered counselling.

Mthatha police spokesperson Captain Dineo Koena confirmed that the 29-year-old had been killed after he was accused of being behind a spate of thefts at the Zamukulungisa site, where students lost laptops and cellphones, among other belongings.

WSU spokesperson Yonela Tukwayo said: “The university sends its deepest condolences to the family. Counselling services are available to students who experienced trauma during this incident, therefore any affected student is free to contact the WSU wellness centre anytime to arrange.”

Koena said they have activated a “72-hour activation plan” to arrest Ndamase’s killers.

“We are following strong leads and we are optimistic that we will arrest the suspects soon.”

She appealed to students who may have witnessed the incident to come forward with information that could lead to an arrest.

“We want people to visit us so that we may put an end to vigilantism,” Koena said.

“People need to know that taking the law into their own hands is a criminal offence.”

Tukwayo also announced plans by the university to beef up security at the Zamukulungisa site .

“There are a number of upgrades taking place at Zamukulungisa and security is one of those being improved,” said Tukwayo.

The spokesperson said the same mob had attacked another student believed to be an accomplice of the deceased.

She said the alleged accomplice had run for his life after sustaining injuries.

Tukwayo said: “This is an absolute tragedy, but the matter is being investigated by the police and we will not rest until those who killed the student face charges for their actions.

“As management we strongly condemn such violent acts by students and we are committed to stamping out violent and unruly behaviour.”